“This year’s Anchors Aweigh Boat Show will be huge. Including these impressive Alaskan artists and their phenomenal marine-themed paintings will add color and energy to the show’s event floor while giving attendees the opportunity to view and purchase remarkable Alaskan maritime art,” said Nick Olzenak, president of AMDA.

The “Celebrating Women Mariners” exhibit also incudes a daily video presentation at 11 AM, 2 PM and 4 PM of Capt. Anna Young’s award-winning film “Alaskan Women Mariners,” scoring top-honors at the Moondance Festival in New York City in 2012.

“The idea initially came from AMDA after my Alaskan Women Mariners film won at Moondance,” noted Young, a licensed 100-Ton Captain. “I’m an artist, and often focus on marine scenes. The Alaskan Marine Dealers Association wanted to enhance the Anchors Aweigh Boat Show in 2013 beyond the diverse assortment of boats and watercraft, with an emphasis on encouraging more women to attend. Our art exhibit really adds to the depth of the show.”

The Alaskan Marine Dealers Association is a non-profit organization advocating for boating and marine safety and education throughout Alaska. The 2013 show includes boats, rafts, watercraft and accessories, businesses focusing on alternative energy applications, marine insurance, canoe building, a U.S. Coast Guard seminar and Alaska State Trooper recruitment.

“We hope that men and women, and families, see the merit of this year’s show,” added Olzenak. “AMDA is about boating and water safety access. This show is about what we all love and treasure in Alaska’s waters. The entrance fee is less than a movie ticket, and there will be lots of boats and accessories, prizes and entertainment - including Hobo Jim and the art exhibit and video showing, and the Alaska Outdoor Council’s annual dinner is Saturday February 9th, which is also at Dena’ina Center. There really is something for everyone,” said Olzenak.